How to Start Writing Again After a Long Break
In my teens, I dreamt of being a writer in New York or Paris. The image was always the same: I would be writing by a window overlooking the city or in a local café. That was how I imagined most writers lived. That dream is gone, and now my reality is sitting by the window in Florida as the sun goes down and palm trees sway in the golden light. I’mgrateful for this small-city energy. There’s a rhythm to it—people walking, trees swaying, and birds flying. I’m surrounded by motion.Â
Why It Can Be Hard to Start Writing AgainÂ
Isn’t that what spring is all about? It’s the season of moving forward after the stillness of winter. Winter has its purpose; it teaches us to slow down, but spring is the time to grow and thrive.Â
3 Simple Steps to Get Back to Writing Your NovelÂ
That’s how I see my writing. It’s been more than a season since I last looked at my novel. I’ve collected ideas and added notes to different chapters, but I haven’t pushed myself to move forward. So how do I begin again? I’m starting with these steps:
1. Review the latest printed version of my novel alongside the latest digital version.Â
2. As I review my novel, I will decide which notes to keep and which to cut. Let’s face it: a good idea at three in the morning may not hold up in the light of day.Â
3. Then I will stick to a weekly schedule. I’ve learned to give myself grace when it comes to writing, but I will set a goal of 5,000 words a week and aim to exceed it when I can.Â